In-line gas adaptor for endoscopic apparatus

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides an adaptor that is suitable for attachment to an endoscopic device for delivery of a secondary gas. The adaptor generally comprises an adaptor body with first and second fluid transport components and can include a gas inlet on one of the fluid transport components suitable for attachment to a secondary gas source. A scaling member can be included to prevent leakage of any fluid (e.g., liquid or gas) that is transported through channels extending through the fluid transport components. The adaptor may be used in endoscopy methods and is particularly useful for adding a secondary gas source in an endoscopy procedure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/869,265, filed Aug. 26, 2010, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/238,332, filed Aug. 31, 2009, each ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application is directed to devices used in surgicalprocedures, such as endoscopic procedures, and more particularly to adevice that can be used to connect a secondary gas source to anapparatus, such as an endoscopic apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Many invasive medical procedures that previously required major surgeryare now performed using endoscopic instruments. Such instruments canprovide an internal view of particular body pans, organs, or passagewithout requiring invasive surgery. Generally, an endoscopic instrumentmay include one or more channels through which miniaturized, flexibleinstruments can be inserted and advanced. The endoscope typicallyincludes an elongated flexible cable equipped at one end with aneyepiece or other viewing means and at the other end with an opticalhead. Only the head is directly and externally connected to theinstrument. The cable transmits images or image-producing signals fromthe illuminated operative site to the viewing means to provide theinstrument operator with full vision of the actions being performed atthe instrument's working end. A coherent optic bundle extends from thehead and through the flexible cable through the eyepiece for providingthe surgeon with visual confirmation of the instrument's tip or jawaction. The illuminating means may take the form of a light-transmittingwaveguide extending through the cable to illuminate the operative area.The waveguide is connected at its proximal end to a suitablehigh-intensity light source.

The cable of an endoscope also provides a flow passage for the deliveryof fluid (e.g., liquid or gas) for irrigation or other purposes.Typically, the flow passage and the illuminating means are disposed onopposite sides of the coherent image-transmitting waveguide. Inconventional practice, it is necessary to provide a flow of sterilewater across the optic head to prevent the buildup of materials (e.g..surgical debris and body fluids) on the optic head. This flow of wateroperates, in a sense, like a windshield wiper/washer assembly.

In common designs, an endoscopic instrument typically has a control bodywhich is connected by a light guide tube to a light guide connector,which actually can include a plurality of connectors that can suitablyreceive various fittings. For example, the light guide connector caninclude a connector orifice that receives a grounding lug, a suctionport, an air inlet, and a water inlet. As such, the air and water aredelivered through the light guide connector, through the light guidetube and into the control body. Alternatively, the control body can alsoinclude a water port so as to allow water to be directly provided to thecontrol body. Suitable valves are provided on the control body so as tocontrol the flow of water through the control body and over the optichead of the instrument.

For example, FIG. 1 illustrates an endoscope system that is unmodified(i.e., includes no secondary gas supply means). The endoscope is shownto include a shaft (insertion tube) connected to a control body thatincludes a biopsy port, air water and suction valves, and angulationcontrols. The control body is connected to an umbilical (light guideconnecting tube) that further connects to an electrical pin unit, whichis directly connected to a light source and is connected via a videoconnection lead (and plug) to a video processor. The image produced bythe endoscope is transmitted via a fiber optic bundle, or electronicallyfrom a charge-coupled device (CCD) chip. FIG. 1 illustrates a videomonitor and attached keyboard for viewing images and inputting commands.The electrical pin unit includes a port for a water bottle connectorthat connects to a water bottle for providing irrigation.

The somewhat complex internal anatomy of the endoscope is furtherillustrated in FIG. 2, which shows a detailed view of the endoscope fromFIG. 1. As seen in FIG. 2, the shaft incorporates an instrumentationchannel extending from the entry biopsy port to the tip of theinstalment. Channel sizes can vary from about 1 to 5 mm. Again, theendoscope includes no means for a secondary gas supply.

As seen in FIG. 1, the known practice has been to use a water bottlewith a cap having a tube running therethrough. The tube typically has afitting at the end distal to the bottle to allow for connection to theair/water connection port of the light guide connector (of theelectrical pin unit, as illustrated in FIG. 1) or to the port on theendoscope control body. Typically, the tube connecting the water bottleto the endoscope is formed of an inner tube and an outer tube. The outertube extends into the water bottle and is connected to the cap of thewater bottle. In normal practice, air is delivered through the areabetween the inner tube and the outer tube so as to pressurize theinterior of the water bottle and force water to flow through the tubeand into the endoscope at a desired rate. The known endoscopy assemblieshave various limitations in relation to the provision of a gas source.For example, ambient air is often pumped into the system to charge thewater bottle. It can be desirable, however, to use a secondary gassource instead of ambient air. Know n devices allowing for substitutionwith a secondary gas source are excessively expensive. Moreover, knowndevices suffer problems associated with disinfection after each use. Inpractice, after usage, any fittings associated with the endoscopy deviceare sterilized, such as by glutaraldehyde disinfection and/orautoclaving. This creates a considerable expense to the hospitalincluding the considerable labor expense associated with thedisinfection of various parts and fittings. It also has not typicallybeen feasible to simply dispose of various endoscopy fittings after asingle use because of the previously noted expense associated with suchparts.

Still further, the provision of a secondary gas source is complicated inthat known endoscopy devices do not have universal, standardizedconnections. For example, the three main manufacturers of endoscopydevices (Olympus Optical Company. Ltd., Fujifilm Medical Systems, or itssubsidiary, Fujinon Inc., and Hoya Corporation, or its subsidiary,Pentax) each manufacture devices with an endoscope body that isuniversal to its own line of products but which is not suited forinterchanging of parts between brands. Specifically, water bottleconnectors for each manufacturer connect to the endoscope body via adifferent type of connection. Thus, there remains a need in the an foradaptors that allow for provision of a secondary gas in a manner that iseconomical and easy to use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides adapters to improve the case of provisionand use of a secondary gas source in endoscopy. The inventive adaptorscan be designed and shaped to function with endoscopic devices generallyor may be designed and shaped to function with endoscopic devices havinga particular structure unique to a single manufacturer of endoscopicdevices. In light of their economical nature (and option for disposable,single use), the inventive adaptors allow for provision of a secondarygas in an endoscopy procedure without the requirement of costly,specialized equipment, such as a water bottle with a specially designedcap or a re-usable adaptor that has a much greater initial cost and mustbe sterilized between uses. These and other benefits of the presentinvention are more fully described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention provides adaptors that canbe used with endoscopic devices. In particular, the adaptors can allowfor the provision of a secondary gas to the endoscopic device viain-line placement between the endoscopic device and a water sourceconnector.

In one embodiment, an adaptor according to the invention can comprise anadaptor body having a particular structure. For example, the adaptorbody can comprise a first fluid transport component that is connected toa second fluid transport component. Preferably, the connection betweenthe two components is a non-fluid connection. The first and second fluidtransport components can be described as having exterior surfaces, ashaving a separate channel extending therethrough forming interiorsurfaces, as having a flared end, and as having a tapered end. In otherembodiments, the components can be described as being formed of wallsthat have an interior surface forming the channel and that have anexterior surface that form the outer boundary of the component. Infurther embodiments, the adaptor body can comprise an inlet portextending outward from the exterior surface of one of the first andsecond fluid transport components. Preferably, the inlet port is influid connection with the component from which it extends. In otherembodiments, the inlet port may be described as intersecting a wall ofone of the components to form an opening therein.

In some embodiments, the adaptor further can comprise one or moresealing members. For example, a sealing member may be located at theinterior surface of one or both of the flared ends of the first andsecond fluid transport components. In some embodiments, the wall of oneor both of the fluid transport components may have formed therein agroove or the like for receiving a sealing member, such as an O-ring ora gasket. Of course, any other means useful for positioning the scalingmember such that it at least partially extends into the channel formedin the fluid transport component could be used. For example, a washer orother retaining member could be placed below the sealing member toprevent the sealing member from being removed through the flared end ofthe fluid transport component.

In preferred embodiments, the inlet port of the inventive adaptor maycomprise a luer or barb connector. Such connectors are more fullydescribed below. In specific embodiments, the luer connector may be inaccordance with ISO 594-2:1998.

The alignment of the inlet port in relation to the remaining componentsof the adaptor body can vary. Specifically, the inlet port could haveany length or geometry (i.e., substantially straight, L-shaped, curved,or the like) useful to facilitate ease of attachment of a secondary gassource to the inlet port. In specific embodiments, the inlet port issubstantially perpendicular to the exterior surface of the fluidtransport component. Thus, the attachment of the inlet port to the fluidtransport component may be such that the exterior surfaces of the wallsof the components are at about a 90° angle. Of course, such angle couldvary as deemed useful. In some embodiments, the angle can be betweenabout 10° and about 90°, between about 20° and about 90°, between about30° and about 90°, between about 40° and about 90°, between about 45°and about 90°, between about 50° and about 90°, or between about 60° andabout 90°. In specific embodiments, the length of the inlet port may beabout 1 cm to about 5 cm, about 1.5 cm to about 4.5 cm, about 1.5 cm toabout 4 cm, or about 1.5 cm to about 3 cm. Preferably, the alignment,shape, and length of the inlet port provide for ready access while theadaptor is inserted in-line between an endoscope control body and awater source connector. Component geometry also may be related to thefluid transport components of the adaptor body. For example, the firstand second fluid transport components may be described as beingsubstantially parallel. Moreover, they may be described as being in aside-by-side connection. As will be evident from the further disclosureherein, such alignment can be particularly useful to facilitate use withspecific types of endoscope devices, and any adaptor not having suchalignment or structure would be expressly excluded from being used inconnection with the specific type of endoscope device. Specifically, insome embodiments, the inventive adaptor can be designed and shaped forattachment specifically to an Olympus-manufactured endoscopic device.Such specificity can arise from the specific structure and placement ofelements on the Olympus-manufactured endoscope devices for delivery offluid into the endoscope (such as from a water bottle). The adaptor ofthe present invention may be expressly structured for insertion in-linein an Olympus-manufactured endoscope and water bottle connectorassembly.

In specific embodiments, the fluid transport components may be describedin relation to the specific type of fluid to be transferredtherethrough. For example, the first fluid transport component may bereferred to as a liquid transport component. Thus, the channel formedtherein could be referred to as a liquid channel. Similarly, the secondfluid transport component may be referred to as a gas transportcomponent. Thus, the channel formed therein could be referred to as agas channel. Preferably, the inlet port included in the adaptor extendsoutward from and is in fluid connection with the gas transportcomponent. Thus, the channel formed in the gas inlet port would be influid connection with the gas channel in the gas transport component.

In some embodiments, it may be useful for the various components of theadaptor body to have specific shapes or dimensions. For example, in someembodiments, the internal diameter of the gas channel at the tapered endof the channel can be greater than the internal diameter of the liquidchannel at the tapered end of the channel. Similarly, in someembodiments, the external diameter of the liquid channel at the flaredend of the channel can be greater than the external diameter of the gaschannel at the flared end of the channel.

Sizes and dimensions of the specific components of the inventive adaptorcan be specifically determined for use with specific devices. Forexample, endoscope control bodies manufactured by Olympus OpticalCompany, Ltd. are known to include two pins for fluid transfer to andfrom a water bottle via attachment to receptacles formed in a waterbottle connector. In certain embodiments, the inventive adaptor may beformed to specifically interact with such pins and receptacles. Forexample, in one embodiment, the flared ends of the first and secondfluid transport components from the inventive adaptor may be shaped toengage the fluid transport elements or pins extending from a portion ofan endoscopic device, such as in the Olympus devices. More particularly,the flared ends may be shaped to facilitate a press-fit. scaledengagement with the fluid transport elements on the endoscopic devicewithout secondary engaging means. This is particularly beneficialbecause of the ease of use of a press-fit adaptor and the ability toprepare such adaptors in a very cost-effective manner that passes on thecost savings to an end-user. Moreover, the press-fit adaptor would beuseful with an endoscopic device while avoiding fluid loss since knownin-line devices typically include secondary means for securing thedevice, such as a screw collar or the like.

Similar to the above, in other embodiments, the tapered ends of thefirst and second fluid transport components can be shaped to engagereceptacles in a water source connector. Again, the tapered ends can beshaped to facilitate a press-fit. sealed engagement with the watersource connector receptacles without secondary engaging means.

In some embodiments, the present invention may be distinguishable fromthe art based on the overall structure of the adaptor. For example, asdescribed above, the adaptor body may be formed of the first fluidtransport component, the second fluid transport component, and the inletport, and these components may be combined into a single, monolithicstructure. Specifically, the adaptor body may be formed as a single itemthat is shaped to provide the separate components. Such nature of theinventive adaptor may arise from the method of formation of the adaptorand the material used to form the adaptor Specifically, the adaptor bodymay be formed of a polymeric material. As such, the adaptor body may bedescribed as being formed of a plastic material. In some embodiments,the polymeric material used to prepared an adaptor body according to theinvention may be a material that is chemical resistant, heat resistant,or both chemical resistant and heat resistant. Other components used inan adaptor according to the invention (e.g., retaining members) maylikewise be formed of such polymeric materials and preferably, may beformed of the same material as the adaptor body.

In one embodiment, the adaptor body may be described as being a singlepiece of polymeric material having two channels formed therein.Preferably, the two channels do not intersect and are not in fluidconnection. One channel may be a liquid channel and the other channelmay be a gas channel. Both channels preferably are linear and may besubstantially or completely straight (although the channel walls mayhave a slight draft angle, such as up to about 5°, up to about 4°, up toabout 3°, up to about 2°, or up to about 1°. The gas channel may bebranched and may be described as being substantially T-shaped, one lineextending the length of the adaptor (i.e., from the tapered end to theflared end) and the other line extending through the inlet port, forexample, the second line extending substantially perpendicularly fromthe first line.

In an additional aspect, the adaptor includes a shroud for providingadditional rigidity. The shroud may extend radially outwardly from theexterior surfaces of the first and second fluid transport components, aswell as axially with respect to the first and second fluid transportcomponents so as to at least partially surround the tapered end of thefirst and/or second fluid transport component. The shroud may include awall extending circumferentially about the first and second fluidtransport components so as to define an opening for at least partiallyreceiving the tapered end of the first and/or second fluid transportcomponent. In one embodiment, the shroud extends axially such that thetapered end of the second fluid transport component is completelysurrounded by the shroud, and the tapered end of the first fluidtransport component is not completely surrounded by the shroud.

In light of the foregoing description, it is clear that the inventiveadaptor also may be described in terms of the method of manufacture. Forexample, the adaptor, particularly the adaptor body, may be described asbeing a molded part.

Thus, in some embodiments, the invention also can provide a method ofpreparing an adaptor for secondary gas provision in an endoscope. Themethod can comprise providing a mold shaped to form an adaptor body thatis a single, integral piece of polymeric material having two channelsformed therein, injecting a polymer into the mold, and allowing thepolymer to harden. Preferably, after the molding process, the edges ofthe adaptor body are free and clear of flashing and flecking. Further,preferably, the molding process is free of any mold release agent suchthat the molded part is free of any mold releasing agent. Moreover,preferably, the molding process is controlled such that the finishedpart is free and clear of any grease or other lubrication used in amolding tool.

In another aspect, the invention can provide methods of carrying out anendoscopic procedure. In one embodiment, a method according to theinvention can comprise using an assembly including an endoscopic device,a water source, a gas source, and an adaptor according to any embodimentdisclosed herein.

In a specific embodiment, a method for supplying a secondary gas in anendoscopic procedure can comprise the following steps: using anendoscope device having attached thereto a water source with aconnector; affixing between live water source connector and theendoscope device an adaptor according to the present invention; andsupplying a secondary gas to the endoscope device via the gas inlet porton the adaptor. Specifically, the adaptor can comprise an adaptor bodyhaving: a liquid transport component in non-fluid connection with a gastransport component, the transport components each having exteriorsurfaces, each having a separate channel extending therethrough forminginterior surfaces, and each having a flared end and a tapered end: and agas inlet port extending outward from the exterior surface of the gastransport component and being in fluid connection with the component.Preferably, the secondary gas comprises carbon dioxide, although othergases or combinations of gases could be used.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an unmodified endoscope system thatincludes no means of providing a secondary gas supply;

FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the endoscope from the system illustratedin FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an adaptor according to one embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 4 is a front view of an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 5 is a top view of an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of an adaptor according to one embodiment ofthe invention:

FIG. 8 is a cross-section of an adaptor according to one embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view showing an adaptor according to oneembodiment of the present invention in position for placement in-linebetween a water source connector and the control body of an endoscopedevice;

FIG. 10 illustrates an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention placed in-line between a water source connector and thecontrol body of an endoscope device;

FIG. 11 is a cross-section showing the press fit, in-line attachment ofan adaptor according to one embodiment of the invention placed between awater source connector and the control body of an endoscope device;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an adaptor according to anotherembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a front view of an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 14 is a top view of an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 15 is a bottom view of an adaptor according to one embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 16 is an exploded view of an adaptor according to one embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 17 is a cross-section of an adapter according to one embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 18 is an exploded view showing an adaptor according to oneembodiment of the present invention in position for placemen in-linebetween a water source connector and the control body of an endoscopedevice;

FIG. 19 illustrates an adaptor according to one embodiment of theinvention placed in-line between a water source connector and thecontrol body of an endoscope device; and

FIG. 20 is a cross-section showing the press fit, in-line attachment ofan adaptor according to one embodiment of the invention placed between awater source connector and the control body of an endoscope device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter throughreference to various embodiments. These embodiments are provided so thatthis disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey thescope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Indeed, theinvention may be embodied in many different forms and should not beconstrued as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, theseembodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicablelegal requirements. As used in the specification, and in the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a”. “an”, “the”, include plural referentsunless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The present invention provides an adaptor that allows for the use of anysecondary gas during an endoscopic procedure. Endoscopic assembliestypically include a water source, such as a water bottle. These ofteninclude caps that have a dual-lumen tube that supplies air through onelumen to charge the water bottle. This charge gas may be considered aprimary gas. Any gas provided during an endoscopic procedure in additionto or in lieu of this charge gas may be considered to be a secondary gasaccording to the present invention.

Introduction of a gas into a body cavity is common practice ingastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. Previously, when it has beendesired to introduce a gas during an endoscopic procedure, standard roomair was simply introduced (such as from the light source). More recentlyit has been found that the use of carbon dioxide (CO₂) insufflation canimprove post-procedure patient comfort since CO₂ is more easily absorbedby the body. For example, use of CO₂ may be particularly useful for longendoscopic exams, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram(ERCP), enteroscopy, and colonoscopy, and gas may be used in otherendoscopic procedures as well, such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) andesophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Provision of a secondary gas sourcehas proven challenging, however. For example, the addition of CO₂ in anendoscopic procedure has previously required the use of cumbersomeexternal regulators, flow meters, and specialized valves. The advent ofspecialized equipment for the provision of a secondary gas in anendoscopic procedure, such as the CO₂EFFICIENT™ Endoscopic Insufflator(available from Bracco Diagnostics, Inc., Princeton, N.J.), hassimplified secondary gas supply. Still, though, the lack ofstandardization in endoscopic devices made by different manufacturerscontinues to complicate the provision of a secondary gas in associationwith a variety of endoscopic devices. For example, Pentax has availablea gas adaptor that is designed exclusively for its endoscopic devices.The Pentax adaptor, though, is relatively expensive, is designed formultiple uses, and can be difficult to use (for example requiringattachment via a screw collar). This design raises the issues of costand patient safety associated with the cleaning of reusable pans.Olympus and Fujinon have each addressed the provision of a secondary gaswhen using their respective endoscopic devices by providing waterbottles with bottle caps that include some means for attaching a gassource. Again, the cost of these parts can be prohibitive andsterilization between uses is still required. In contrast, the presentinvention has made possible the addition of a secondary gas in a mannerthat is easy to use, medically safe, and economical.

The ability to use any secondary gas of choice according to theinvention can be achieved through provision of an adaptor for use“in-line” with an endoscopic device. As discussed previously, endoscopicdevices typically include a main body to which a number of differentcord, tubes, or lines are attached. This provides for introduction oflight, fluids, and instruments into the body of a patient. As usedherein, the term “in-line” is understood to mean that the adaptor isdesigned to function with an endoscopic device by being positionedbetween two or more components of the device. Thus, “in-line” can meanthat the adaptor is positioned between two or more of a main body, acord, a tube, a line, a connector, or the like. A skilled person readilywould be able to envision the different parts of an endoscopic devicewhere an adaptor according to the invention would be positioned toprovide the function described herein. In specific embodiments, anadaptor according to the invention is designed for positioning in-linebetween the main body of an endoscopic device and the cord, tube, orline leading to a water source. Specifically, the adaptor may connect atone end to the main body of the endoscopic device and at another end toa water bottle connector.

In one aspect, the present invention provides an adaptor for anendoscopic device. The adaptor particularly is designed to be positionedin-line with existing components of an endoscopic device. Such design isevident by the disclosure provided hereinafter.

In certain embodiments, the adaptor generally can comprise an adaptorbody. The adaptor body may encompass the bulk of the overall adaptor. Inother words, the adaptor body may be substantially a single, integralcomponent. Of course, further components may be included, as describedbelow, but the adaptor body may be characterized by its single, integralnature, such as the express lack of any movable parts needed to securethe adaptor to the remaining components of an endoscopic device. Inspecific embodiments, the adaptor body may be described as being formedof a first fluid transport component, a second fluid transportcomponent, and an inlet port that together are a single, monolithicstructure. The term monolithic is understood as meaning that the overalladaptor body is a unitary structure having a seamless construction thatcannot be separated into its individual components without the use ofdestructive means, such as cutting the components apart.

Although the adaptor body preferably exhibits a single, integralstructure, the structure of the adaptor can be described in relation tothe function and shape of the various components or areas of theadaptor. For example, in some embodiments, the adaptor body may bedescribed as having a first fluid transport component and a second fluidtransport component. As used herein, the term “fluid” is intended toencompass any material that may be described in relation to flow, suchas a gas or a liquid, including solutions or other physical forms of aliquid or a gas that may include some concentration of a solid materialin a dissolved, suspended, or otherwise mixed state that does notprevent flow of the liquid or gas. Although the adaptor is discussed andillustrated in terms of a first and a second fluid transport component,the adaptor is not limited to only two such components. Rather, theadaptor could include further fluid transport components for use withdevices where three or more fluids may be transported through a commoncarrier (e.g., a liquid and two or more gases, a gas and two or moreliquids, or two or more gases and two or more liquids).

As the adaptor body is a single component, it is preferable that thefirst and second fluid transport components be attached or connected. Inspecific embodiments, though, the first and second fluid transportcomponents can be in a “non-fluid connection.” which is understood tomean that walls of the separate fluid transport components may beconnected or attached one to another, but the fluid transport means ofeach component are maintained separate from one another such that anyfluid transported through the first component cannot become intermixedwith the fluid transported through the second component. In otherembodiments, if desirable, the fluid transport components could be in afluid connection.

The first and second fluid transport components may be described ashaving exterior surfaces and interior surfaces. The exterior surfacescan encompass the external structure of the adaptor body (e.g., theshape and dimensions) and, as discussed in more detail below, theexternal structure can facilitate interconnection of the adaptor withother devices. The exterior and interior surfaces may be described inrelation to the walls of the adaptor (i.e., the walls of the adaptorbody generally or the walls of the specific components, such as wallsforming the channels, walls delineating the fluid transfer components,and walls forming the inlet port).

The interior surfaces of the first and second fluid transport componentscan encompass a channel that extends through the fluid transportcomponents and facilitates movement of a fluid from one end of theadaptor to another end of the adaptor. Preferably the channel extendingthrough the first fluid transport component is separate from the channelextending through the second fluid transport component. As discussed inmore detail below, the interior surface of the fluid transportcomponents also can encompass areas that facilitate interconnection ofthe adaptor with other devices.

The fluid transport components also may be described in relation to theshape and dimensions of the ends of the adaptor. For example, the fluidtransport components each may have a flared end and a tapered end.Likewise, the adaptor generally may be described as having a flared endand a tapered end. As seen in relation to the Figures, the flared andtapered ends can be designed specifically to facilitate interconnectionof the adaptor with certain elements of an endoscope device or assembly.In some embodiments, the interior of the flared end may be consideredpart of the channel extending through the fluid transport component. Inother embodiments, the interior of the flared end may be considered tobe separate from the channel. For example, the interior of the flaredend may be considered a receiving element for receiving a connector orother fluid transport element extending from another device.

In addition to the fluid transport components, the adaptor body also cancomprise an inlet port. The inlet port can be any clement extendingoutward from the exterior surface of a fluid transport component andbeing in fluid connection with the component. The inlet port also can bedescribed as being a substantially tubular shaped element and/or asforming a channel that intersects one of the previously describedchannels formed in the adaptor body, particularly formed in one of theabove-described fluid transport components. The inlet port particularlycan be the element that allows for introduction of a secondary gas, asmore particularly described below.

The structure and function of the inventive adaptor are further seen inrelation to the various Figures. For example, FIG. 3 illustrates anadaptor 10 according to the invention. The adaptor body 15 comprises afirst fluid transport component 20 and a second fluid transportcomponent 30. It is understood that the terms “first” and “second” aremeant for case of understanding and are not intended to limit theinvention. For example, in FIG. 3. the left side of the adaptor isdescribed as the first fluid transport component. In other embodiments,the right ride of the adaptor could be described as the first fluidtransport component.

In FIG. 3. the first fluid transport component 20 comprises a flared end21 and a tapered end 22 separated by a first central body 23. The firstfluid transport component 20 also comprises a channel 25 extendingtherethrough (only the opening at the tapered end 22 being visible).Also in FIG. 3, the second fluid transport component 30 comprises aflared end 31 and a tapered end 32 separated by a second central body33. The second fluid transport component 30 also comprises a channel 35extending therethrough (only the opening at the tapered end 32 beingvisible).

The body 15 of the inventive adaptor 10 also comprises an inlet port 40.The inlet port particularly can be a gas inlet port. As such, the fluidtransport component to which the gas inlet port 40 is connected can bereferred to as the gas transport component. As illustrated in FIG. 3,the second fluid transport component 30 could be described as the gastransport component 30. Likewise, the channel 35 could be described asthe gas channel 35. In this embodiment, the first fluid transportcomponent 20 thus could be described as the liquid transport component20. Likewise, the channel 25 could be described as the liquid channel25.

The gas inlet port 40 may take on a variety of structures and can haveany structure or take on any form suitable to carry out the intendedfunction, which is to provide a port for inputting a secondary gas intothe device. In practice, a secondary gas often may be provided via sometype of tubing that may or may not include a specialized connection unit(e.g.. a screw-on connection or a plug-in confection). For example, thegas inlet port 40 could include a barb, thread, or snap fittingconnection. Thus, the gas inlet port 40 may be designed to accommodatesuch a specialized connection. In one embodiment, the tubing may becoupled between the gas inlet port 40 and an insufflator unit inputtingthe secondary gas. Regardless of the type of connection that is to beaccommodated, the gas inlet port 40 can comprise a central passage 42extending through the wall of the gas transport component 30 and openingon the interior surface of the gas transport component 30. Such centralpassage 42 can be solely tor passage of the secondary gas or also canform an entry port for insertion of a gas connection. For example, ifthe gas is to be provided via a device having a specialized plug-inconnector, the passage 42 can be formed to accommodate the plug. Thus,the passage 42 can be described as being an annular passage with wallsthat may have formed therein specialized components (e.g., grooves orthreads) for receiving a plug. The components particularly may allow forremovable attachment of a plug device for delivery of gas.

In specific embodiments, the gas inlet port 40 may substantially extendoutward from the exterior surface of the gas transport component 30.Such a structure particularly is useful to accommodate attachment of agas line having a screw-on component or a gas line that attaches bysimply being pressed over and onto the extending portion of the port 40(e.g.. a standard, flexible hose or tube).

In one embodiment, the gas inlet port 40 may comprise a luer connectoror any similar structure. Luer connection systems typically areassociated with the interconnection of syringes, catheters, hubbedneedles, IV tubes, and the like. A luer connection system consists ofround male and female interlocking tubes that may be slightly tapered tohold together better with even just a simple pressure/twist fit. Asillustrated in FIG. 3. the luer connector is a female component. In use,a male luer connector may simply slip inside the shown female componentand form a secure connection. The illustrated embodiment provides for aneven more secure fit through inclusion of an additional outer rim 44(which functions as a single thread). As shown, the rim 44 is formed oftwo separate “wings.” In use. the male luer connector can include anadditional outer rim of threading to form a “locked” connection.

An adaptor according to certain embodiments of the invention also isshown in FIG. 4 as a front view (i.e., looking directly at the gas inletport 40). As seen in this embodiment, the gas inlet port 40 can beformed to be substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface of thefluid transport components 20 and 30. As also seen in this embodiment,the first fluid transport component 20 and the second fluid transportcomponent 30 can be in substantially parallel alignment and can be in aside by-side connection. Such alignment is beneficial to facilitateattachment of the adaptor 10 to the components of the endoscopic device.The fluid connection between the gas inlet port 40 and the gas transportcomponent 30 is also seen in FIG. 4. Specifically, the figure shows thecentral passage 42 of the gas inlet port 40 opening into the gas channel35 in the gas transport component 30. Thus, the central passage 42 canbe viewed as being separate from the gas channel 35 or can be viewed asbeing a branch of the gas channel 35.

As seen in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the external surfaces of the fluidtransport components of the adaptor 10 may have different relativedimensions. For example, the flared portion 21 of the first fluidtransport component 20 may have an outside diameter that is greater thanthe outside diameter of the flared portion 31 of the second fluidtransport component 30. In other embodiments, the flared portion 21 ofthe first fluid transport component 20 may have an outside diameter thatis less than the outside diameter of the flared portion 31 of the secondfluid transport component 30, of the diameters may be substantiallyequal. Likewise, the overall length of the first fluid transportcomponent 20 may be greater than the overall length of the second fluidtransport component 30. In other embodiments, the overall length of thefirst fluid transport component 20 may be less than the overall lengthof the second fluid transport component 30, or the overall lengths maybe substantially equal. Similarly, the overall length of the flaredportion 21 of the first fluid transport component 20 can be greater thanthe overall length of the flared portion 31 of the second fluidtransport component 30. In other embodiments, the overall length of theflared portion 21 of the first fluid transport component 20 can be lessthan the overall length of the fluted portion 31 of the second fluidtransport component 30. or the overall lengths may be substantiallyequal. Further, the length of the central body 23 of the first fluidtransport component 20 can be greater than, less than, or substantiallyequal to the length of the central body 33 of the second fluid transportcomponent 30. Moreover, the length of the tapered end 22 of the firstfluid transport component 20 can be greater than the length of thetapered end 32 of the second fluid transport component 30. In otherembodiments, the length of the tapered end 22 of the first fluidtransport component 20 cart be less than the length of the tapered end32 of the second fluid transport component 30, or the lengths can besubstantially equal.

Top and bottom views of an adaptor 10 according to the invention areshown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, respectively. As can particularly be seen inFIG. 5, the internal diameter of the gas channel 35 at the tapered end32 thereof can be greater than the internal diameter of the liquidchannel 25 at the tapered end 22 thereof.

The adaptor of the invention may include further components in additionto those already described. Such further components may be separate fromthe monolithic structure of the adaptor body. Such further componentsmay be formed separately from the monolithic structure of the adaptorbody but may be combined with the adaptor body in such a manner so as toeffectively become an integral part of the overall structure.

In certain embodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 7, the adaptor 10further may comprise one or more sealing members. As illustrated, anO-ring 26 is included in the flared end 21 of the first fluid transportcomponent 20 and a second O-ring 36 is included in the flared end 31 ofthe second fluid transport component 30. Of course, other types ofsealing members, such as gaskets or the like, are encompassed by theinvention. As further described below, the seating members are usefulfor forming a fluid-tight connection between the adaptor and the devicesto which it is attached.

The adaptor 10 also can comprise retaining members for retaining thesealing members within the flared ends of the fluid transportcomponents. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the adaptor 10 includes a firstwasher 27 that is included in the flared end 21 of the first fluidtransport component 20 external to the O-ring 26 and a second washer 37that is included in the flared end 31 of the second fluid transportcomponent 30 external to the second O-ring 36. Although washers areillustrated, the invention should not be so limited. Rather, any meansuseful to retain the sealing members in position could be used. Forexample, the flared ends could include a lip or other similar memberformed on the internal surface of the flared ends such that that sealingmember could be accessed. Likewise, the scaling members could bepositioned in grooves formed in the walls of the adaptor body, saidgrooves functioning to retain the sealing members in place.

When a washer or similar component is used, the means for positioningthe washer within the flared ends of the fluid transport components canvary. For example, the washer could be glued into position or could bewelded. The formation of the retaining members is limited only in theability to form the member during formation of the adaptor body. Theoverall structure of an adaptor 10 according to one embodiment of theinvention particularly is illustrated in the cross-section provided inFIG. 8. As seen therein, the adaptor body can be described as being asingle, unitary structure with a number of channels formed therein. Itcan be seen that the first fluid transport component 20 is integrallyformed with the second fluid transport component 30. Thus, the twocomponents are connected, but the connection is non-fluid in that thereis no pathway or channel where a fluid from one component could beintermingled with a fluid from the other component.

As is particularly evident in FIG. 8. the interior of the adaptor bodycan be designed specifically to receive further components, as describedabove. For example, in the region of the flared ends 21 and 31 of thetwo components 20 and 30, the interior of the adaptor body can have astepped structure. In this embodiment, an open area 29 is provided inthe flared end 21 of the first fluid transport component 20. This areaparticularly can be provided to facilitate attachment to a fluidtransport element extending from a portion of an endoscopic device, asfurther described below. In the embodiment illustrated, no such openarea is provided in the flared end 31 of the second fluid transportcomponent 30 because the fluid transport element on an endoscopic deviceto which the second fluid transport component is to be attached does notinclude a widened area that requires such an opening. Of course, inother embodiments, a similar open area could be provided in the secondfluid transport component. Likewise, the open area could be absent inthe first fluid transport component or both components.

The cross-section of FIG. 8 also further illustrates the presence ofwalls that interconnect to form a series of channels. Specifically, thewalls of the adaptor body form a liquid channel 25, a gas channel 35,and a secondary gas inlet channel 42. In other embodiments, thesecondary gas inlet channel simply can be a branch of the gas channel35, and the walls of the adaptor can be viewed as forming two channels,one linear channel and one branched channel.

The adaptor of the invention can be made of a variety of differentmaterials, which may affect how the adaptor is formed. In certainembodiments, the adaptor may be a machined part. As such, the adaptorparticularly may comprise a plurality of individual parts that aremachined separately and then combined to form the final adaptorassembly. Such combination can be by any means recognized as useful inthe art, such as gluing, welding or the like or using further attachmentcomponents, such as rivets, or the like.

In preferred embodiments, the inventive adaptor may be a molded pan.This particularly is advantageous for providing the adaptor body as asingle, monolithic structure. For example, the adaptor body can beformed as a single, monolithic structure formed of the fluid transportcomponents and the inlet port. This provides for a seamlessconstruction. In embodiments where the adaptor is reusable, thissimplifies cleaning and ensures no contaminants remain in seams, etc.existing between multiple pans that may be combined to form the adaptor.When the molding method permits of such construction, the retainingmembers or like components (e.g., a retaining lip or ledge) could bemolded into the inner surface of the flared ends of the adaptor, inother embodiments, the adaptor body could be formed as a single,monolithic structure, and the washers could be provided separately. Thefinal adaptor can be prepared by inserting sealing members, insertingthe retaining members, and attaching the retaining members to the flaredends. Thus, the final adaptor can be formed to have no moving parts.

The adaptor of the invention is also beneficial in that it can beprovided as a single-use adaptor or may be provided as a reusableadaptor. In some embodiments, the inventive adaptor can be bothsingle-use and reusable in that the end-user will have the option todispose of the adaptor after a single use or sterilize the adaptor andreuse it. This is achievable in particular because of the ability toform the adaptor from a variety of materials using a variety of methods.Thus, the adaptor can be sufficiently economical to justify making onlya single use to avoid the need to sterilize. At the same time, theadaptor can be sufficiently sturdy to withstand multiple sterilizationprocedures.

The adaptor body and the retaining members can be formed from a varietyof different materials. In some embodiments, the adaptor comprises ametal material. Preferably, the metal is non-corrosive (e.g.. stainlesssteel or aluminum). In other embodiments, the adaptor comprises apolymeric material, which preferably is chemical resistant, heatresistant, or both chemical resistant and heat resistant. The use ofmedical grade plastic materials is particularly desirable. In onespecific embodiment, the polymeric material is a polysulfone (e.g.,polyphenylsulfone) or a similar material. Non-limiting examples offurther polymeric materials that may be used to form one or morecomponent of the inventive adaptor include polyethylene (e.g., UHME-PE),polypropylene, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), acetal copolymers,polythermide, polycarbonate, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Thesealing members can be formed of any material recognized as useful informing such element, such as natural or synthetic rubbers.

In one embodiment, the adaptor of the invention can comprise threeplastic components and two O-rings. The plastic components can be theadaptor body, which can include a liquid channel and a gas channel, eachchannel extending through the adaptor body and opening to the exteriorat opposing ends of the adaptor body. The adaptor body also can includea gas inlet that intersects the gas channel and preferably issubstantially perpendicular to the liquid channel and the gas channel.Thus, the gas channel can open to the exterior at three points. Theremaining plastic components can include two washers. The O-rings andthe washers can be located in one end of the adaptor body. Preferably,the adaptor body comprises two flared portions at one end of the adaptorbody, and the O rings and the washers can be located in the flaredportions. The flared portions can correspond to the two, separatechannels of the adaptor body. The washers may be welded into theirposition to permanently prevent removal of do O-rings absent destructionof the adaptor.

The adaptor of the invention is particularly useful in light of thespecific design thereof that enables the adaptor to be inserted in-linewith a known endoscopic device. This is particularly illustrated in FIG.9, FIG. 10, and FIG. 11.

More particularly, the adaptor of the invention can be termed forspecific use with an endoscopic device from a particular manufacturer.As pointed out previously, typical endoscopic devices include a controlbody that connects to a variety of components: however, the connectionmeans vary based upon the manufacturer.

Accordingly, in one embodiment, an adaptor according to the presentinvention can be specifically designed and shaped for attachment to anOlympus-manufactured endoscopic device. More particularly, the adaptorcan be designed and shaped for insertion in-line between a water sourceconnector and a control body of an Olympus OEM endoscope (i.e., anoriginal equipment manufacturer endoscope manufactured by OlympusOptical Company. Ltd.).

The ability of the adaptor to be used in-line with an existingendoscopic device is shown in FIG. 9, where the inventive adaptor 10 ispositioned to be attached at one end to an endoscope control body 100and at the other end to a water source connector 200. The control body100 includes two fluid transport elements or pins 110 and 120 extendingfrom a portion thereof. In typical use, the fluid transport pins 110 and120 engage receptacles 210 and 220 in the water source connector 200.The flared ends 21 and 31 of the adaptor 10 can be designed and shapedto engage the fluid transport pins 110 and 120. Specifically, at least aportion of the fluid transport pins 110 and 120 can engage an open areain one or both of the flared ends, can engage one or both of thechannels 25 and 35 formed in the fluid transport components 20 and 30,or can engage both an open area in one or both of the flared ends andone or both of the channels 25 and 35. As the fluid transport pins 110and 120 of the endoscope control body 100 are shaped to engagereceptacles in the water source connector 200. the inventive adaptor 10can be described as including receptacles that are substantiallyidentical in shape and dimension to the receptacles formed in the watersource connector. Specifically, any open area formed in the flared endsof the adaptor and/or the charnels formed in the adaptor may be designedand shaped to be substantially identical in shape and dimension to thereceptacles formed in the water source connector.

Similarly, the tapered ends 22 and 32 of the adaptor 10 can be designedand shaped to engage the receptacles in the water source connector 200.Depending upon the shape of the receptacles in the water sourceconnector 200, the adaptor 10 can be formed such that at least a portionof one or both of the first and second central bodies 23 and 33 canengage the receptacles in the water source connector 200. As thereceptacles of the water source connector 200 are shaped to receive thefluid transport pins 110 and 120 of the endoscope control body 100, theinventive adaptor 10 can be described as including pins that aresubstantially identical in shape and dimension to the pins formed on theendoscope control body for attachment to the water source connector.Specifically, the tapered ends of the adaptor and/or the central bodiesof the adaptor may be designed and shaped to be substantially identicalin shape and dimension to the pins formed on the endoscope control body.

The inventive adaptor particularly is advantageous in that it can beused simply as a press-fit device. Specifically, the adaptor can bedesigned to allow for being press-fit into engagement with the remainingcomponents, as described above. For example, the flared ends of theadaptor can be shaped to facilitate a press-fit, sealed engagement withthe fluid transport pins on the endoscopic device. Preferably, this isachieved without the use of any secondary engaging means (e.g., in theexpress absence of a screw collar or the like). Similarly, the taperedends of the adaptor can be shaped to facilitate a press-fit, sealedengagement with the water source connector receptacles without therequirement of any secondary engaging means.

The inventive adaptor 10 is shown in FIG. 10 fully engaging theendoscope control body 100 and the water source connector 200. As seenin FIG. 10. the flared ends of the adaptor 10 are engaging the fluidtransport pins from the endoscope control body 100, and the tapered endsof the adaptor 10 are engaging the receptacles in the water sourceconnector 200. Moreover, the gas inlet 40 on the adaptor 10 ispositioned in this engagement for ready attachment to a secondary gassource, such as a CO₂EFFICIENT Endoscopic Insufflator. The engagement ofthe inventive adaptor with the endoscope control body and the watersource connector is more readily evident in the cross-section providedin FIG. 11.

FIGS. 12-20 illustrate an adaptor 300 according to another embodiment ofthe present invention. The adaptor 300 is similar to the embodiments ofthe adapter 10 described above, with the exception of a fewmodifications. As explained in additional detail below, themodifications to the adapter 300 may provide additional rigidity andfacilitate a more secure press-fit with the water source connector 200.In particular, the adapter 300 includes a shroud 310 that extendsradially outwardly from and around the first central body 23 and thetapered end 32. Thus, the central body 23 and the tapered end 32 are atleast partially positioned within an opening 312 defined by a wall 314of the shroud 310 and extend axially from a closed end 316 and throughthe opening 312. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 17, the wall 314 of the shroud310 may extend axially and substantially parallel to the central axes ofthe first and second fluid transport components 20,30 so as to extendcircumferentially thereabout. The wall 314 may extend axially from theclosed end 316 and have a height such that the central body 23 and thetapered end 32 are entirely surrounded by the shroud 300 and positionedwithin the opening 312, while the tapered end 22 extends axially beyondthe height of the wall. However, it is understood that the wall 314 mayextend at any desired height with respect to the fluid transportcomponents 20, 30 in order to at least partially surround the fluidtransport components and facilitate engagement with the water sourceconnector 200. In addition, the shroud 300 may have a generally ovalcross section, although the shroud may be a variety of shapes in orderto facilitate engagement with a water source connector 200. FIGS. 14 and15 illustrate that the shroud 300 may have a larger cross-sectional areathan the tapered ends 22, 23 and the flared ends 21, 31. Moreover, theshroud 300 can be dimensioned to have different tolerances forfacilitating a fluid-tight connection with the water source connector200. The shroud 300 could also be formed of different materials, such asa stiffer material to enhance rigidity or a softer/pliable material forfacilitating a fluid-tight seal.

FIG. 12 also demonstrates that the central body 23 may have alternativeshapes and configurations in order to enhance structural stability andengagement with the water source connector 200. For example, the centralbody 23 may include a key-shaped end extending through the opening 312of the shroud 300 that is configured to engage corresponding keyways inthe water source adapter. Thus, the central body 23 may have differentshapes along its length (e.g., key shaped within the opening 312 andcylindrical between the flared end 21 and the wall 316) in order tofacilitate engagement with the water source connector 200.

As discussed above, the adapters may be formed of a variety ofmaterials. In one embodiment, the adapter 300 includes components formedfrom different materials. For example, the tapered end 22 may be formedof a metallic material, while the remaining portions of the adapter 300may be integrally formed of a polymeric material. Thus, the tapered end22 may be formed of a more durable and stiff material than the remainingportions of the adapter 300 in order to more securely engage the watersource connector 200. In one embodiment, the tapered end 22 may be ametallic material, while the first central body 23 may be a polymericmaterial molded around the tapered end to securely attach the componentstogether via a suitable molding or other technique. It is understoodthat other components could be formed of metallic and/or polymericmaterials. For example, the tapered end 32 could also or alternativelybe formed of a metallic material.

In other aspects, the present invention also provides various methodsthat make use of the inventive adaptor. For example, the invention canbe directed to methods of performing an endoscopic procedure. In oneembodiment, the method can comprise using an assembly that includes anendoscopic device, a water source, a gas source, and an adaptoraccording to any of the embodiments described herein. In other words,the inventive adaptor could be combined at the point of use with an OEMendoscope, particularly an endoscope having fluid transport pins thatengage receptacles in a water source connector, such as an endoscopemanufactured by Olympus.

As previously noted, the present invention is particularly beneficial inthat it allows for the easy and efficient delivery of a secondary gas toan endoscope. Thus, in other aspects, the present invention also can bedirected to methods for supplying a secondary gas in an endoscopicprocedure. In certain embodiments, the method can comprise using anendoscope device having attached thereto a water source with aconnector. Particularly, the endoscope device can have fluid transportpins that engage receptacles in the water source connector. The methodfurther can comprise using an adaptor according to any embodiment of thepresent invention. In particular, the method can comprise affixingbetween the water source connector and the endoscope device an adaptoraccording to the present invention and supplying a secondary gas to theendoscope device via the gas inlet port on the adaptor. Although any gassuitable for use in medical or veterinary procedures could be supplied,in particular embodiments, the, secondary gas can comprise carbondioxide.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which theseinventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions. Therefore, it is to be understood that theinventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosedand that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be includedwithin the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms areemployed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense onlyand not for purposes of limitation.

1-30. (canceled)
 31. An adaptor for an endoscopic device, the adaptorcomprising an adaptor body having: a first fluid transport component ina non-fluid connection with a second fluid transport component, thefirst and second fluid transport components each having walls withexterior surfaces and interior surfaces defining respective first andsecond channels extending therethrough, each fluid transport componenthaving a flared end and a tapered end; and an inlet port extendingoutward from the exterior surface of the first or second fluid transportcomponent and having a central passage in fluid connection with thechannel formed in the component.
 32. The adaptor of claim 31, furthercomprising a sealing member located at the interior surface of one orboth of the flared ends of the first and second fluid transportcomponents.
 33. The adaptor of claim 31, wherein the inlet portcomprises a luer connector.
 34. The adaptor of claim 31, wherein theinlet port is substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface of thefluid transport component.
 35. The adaptor of claim 31, wherein theadaptor body is a single, monolithic structure.
 36. The adaptor of claim31, wherein the channel in the first fluid transport component is aliquid channel, the channel in the second fluid transport component is agas channel, and the inlet port extends outward from the second fluidtransport component such that the central passage in the inlet port isin fluid connection with the gas channel.
 37. The adaptor of claim 36,wherein the internal diameter of the gas channel at the tapered end ofthe channel is greater than the internal diameter of the liquid channelat the tapered end of the channel.
 38. The adaptor of claim 36, whereinthe external diameter of the flared end of the first fluid transportcomponent is greater than the external diameter of the flared end of thesecond fluid transport component.
 39. The adaptor of claim 31, whereinthe tapered ends of the first and second fluid transport components areshaped to engage receptacles in a water source connector.
 40. Theadaptor of claim 39, wherein the tapered ends are shaped to facilitate apress-fit, sealed engagement with the water source connector receptacleswithout secondary engaging means.
 41. The adaptor of claim 1, whereinthe adaptor body comprises a polymeric material.
 42. The adaptor ofclaim 41, wherein the polymeric material is chemical resistant, heatresistant, or both chemical resistant and heat resistant.
 43. Theadaptor of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second fluid transportcomponents comprises a central body between the tapered end and theflared end.
 44. The adaptor of claim 43, wherein the external diameterof the central body is greater than the external diameter of each of thetapered ends of the first and second fluid transport components, andwherein the external diameter of the central body is less than theexternal diameter of each of the flared ends of the first and secondfluid transport components.
 45. The adaptor of claim 31, wherein thetapered end of the first or second transport components comprises ametallic material, and wherein the remaining portion of the adaptor bodycomprises a polymeric material.
 46. The adaptor of claim 31, furthercomprising a shroud extending radially outwardly from the exteriorsurfaces of the first and second fluid transport components, the shroudfurther extending axially with respect to the first and second fluidtransport components so as to at least partially surround the taperedend of the first and/or second fluid transport component.
 47. Theadapter of claim 46, wherein the shroud comprises a wall extendingcircumferentially about the first and second fluid transport componentsso as to define an opening for at least partially receiving the taperedend of the first and/or second fluid transport component.
 48. Theadaptor of claim 46, wherein the shroud extends axially such that thetapered end of the second fluid transport component is completelysurrounded by the shroud, and wherein the tapered end of the first fluidtransport component is not completely surrounded by the shroud.
 49. Amethod of performing an endoscopic procedure, the method comprisingusing an assembly including an endoscopic device, a water source, a gassource, and an adaptor according to claim
 31. 50. A method for supplyinga secondary gas in an endoscopic procedure, the method comprising: usingan endoscope device having attached thereto a water source with aconnector; affixing between the water source connector and the endoscopedevice an adaptor comprising: an adaptor body having: a liquid transportcomponent in a non-fluid connection with a gas transport component, theliquid and gas transport components each having walls with exteriorsurfaces and interior surfaces forming respective first and secondchannels extending therethrough, each transport component having aflared end and a tapered end; and a gas inlet port extending outwardfrom the exterior surface of the gas transport component and having acentral passage in fluid connection with the channel formed in thecomponent; and supplying a secondary gas to the endoscope device via thegas inlet port on the adaptor.